by Anease Lacaze

Created on: October 02, 2008   Last Updated: October 10, 2008

Yoga: Methods, Benefits, History

Yoga has been practiced since the beginning of civilization. Yoga is divided into four basic periods in which specific evolutions of practice are evident.

The Vedic Period is marked by the rising of The Vedas, a sacred Hindu scripture. The Vedas contain teachings to expand mental capacity and achieve greater physical capabilities. These beliefs sparked a need for enlightenment; subsequently, they developed methods of improving focus via seclusion. Later, yoga evolved into a meditative act. Pre-Classical Yoga arrived as a result of Buddhism, and the new mindset that followed the Bhagavad-Gita. The Buddha's teachings emphasized meditation as a vehicle to enlightenment. Poses were first introduced during this time period. As yoga grew further, the Yoga Sutra provided the Eight Limbs of Classical Yoga which took shape with the rise of spirituality. The Eight Limbs consist of the following: Yama (ethics), Niyama (behavior), Asanas (poses), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (meditation preparedness), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (ecstasy). Together, these parts lead to yoga as it is known today. Post-Classical Yoga combined the discipline of Classical Yoga with present thought. Yoga became a method of accepting reality, rather than a tool to escape.

Modern Yoga is a spiritual and physical exercise for better balance. Its benefits are far-reaching, and include stress/pain relief, improved coordination and flexibility. Yoga awakens the mind and body through its poses, releasing energy. There are numerous subcategories of yoga; the following is a breakdown of common yoga types:

Hatha Yoga is most common form, and is often associated with the West. It emphasizes breathing, improved posture and meditation to reach a greater balance. It is beginner-friendly, and instructors are easy to locate.

Bhakti Yoga is a more spiritual manifestation of yoga as it depends greatly upon one's belief in Brahma, and is most frequently seen in India.

Raja Yoga teaches to love and respect oneself. To demonstrate one's love, the Eight Limbs of Yoga are followed.

Jnana Yoga places emphasis on intelligence and wisdom. Through meditation, greater knowledge can be reached. An open and intelligent mind is essential in Jnana Yoga.

Karma Yoga is a method to repent for past negative actions. Through service, negativity can be nullified. Change is necessary to maintain this level of awareness; negative actions/thoughts must cease.

Tantra

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